YOUR COMMUNITY RESOURCE FOR DUI DEFENSE: WASHINGTON STATE DUI BLOG

What happens after the DOL Administrative Hearing?

You wait. The Hearing Officer will then mail you a written decision. The decision usually takes approximately 2 - 4 weeks or longer depending on the Hearing Officer. In most cases, your license suspension will be stayed (put on hold) pending the outcome of the hearing. (unless you have suspension for other reasons)

The DOL decision will either 1) cancel/dismiss the suspension or revocation of your license; or 2) uphold the suspension or revocation of your license. (approximately 75% or so are upheld in a typical year) If the Hearing Officer dismisses the action, the suspension or revocation will be cancelled.

However, if the Department’s action is upheld, the written decision will give an effective date that your drivers license will be suspended - that is typically 10 - 14 days after you receive it. You will also be given information on the steps that must be taken to reinstate your driving privileges following the suspension or revocation. (i.e. SR-22 insurance for 3 years, reissue/licensing fees)

When will my DOL Administrative Hearing be scheduled?

Assuming you properly requested a hearing, the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) will mail you a letter - telling you the date/time of hearing, assigned hearing officer and the phone number that will be called for the hearing. (all hearings are now conducted by telephone)

The DOL administrative hearing must be scheduled within 60 days of your arrest. It is typically scheduled fairly close to the 60th day. You must also receive 10 days notice of the actual hearing date. 

The DOL will almost always give the driver one continuance, if requested. (if so, you will be asked to sign a waiver of the 10 and 60 day requirements above)  

Does Hit & Run Attended have a license suspension?

Yes. In Washington State, Hit & Run Attended has a one (1) year license revocation. Attended means that there was someone in the vehicle when you hit it. Whereas, Hit & Run Unattended is like hitting an unoccupied parked vehicle and does not have a license suspension.

How can I check my license status online?

In Washington State, it is very easy to check your driver's license status online in real-time. No need to call the Department of Licensing and wait 30 minutes for a real person. See link: Real-Time Washington Driver's License Status Just put in your license number. 

How long is a probationary license required for a DUI conviction?

You will be required to have a probationary license for 5 years. 

What happens if I lose my punched license?

If you lose your "Punched" Washington State Driver's License (punched by the officer at the time of your DUI arrest) - you can go into any driver's license and get a paper temporary license. The Department of Licensing (DOL) will not give you a picture regular license while a DUI suspension or hearing is still pending. 

Special Series: "2012 DUI Law Changes" - IID law and new photo requirement:

Effective August 1, 2012, you will be required to have a photo Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed on all vehicles you drive - if you are required to have a IID by either DOL or the Court. Some Judges already impose this condition - but now it will apply to all IID installations on or after August 1, 2012. Obviously, the objective  is  reasonable enough - precluding others from starting your vehicle for you in order to circumvent the IID.

"When reasonably available in the area, an ignition interlock device must employ technology capable of taking a photo Identification of the user giving the breath sample and recording on the photo the time the breath sample was given." SHB 2443. 

This is another way technology is being used to tighten the screws on Washington State Drivers - even if you have never before been arrested for anything. Remember, you can be required to have the IID without ever being convicted of anything - even if your DUI charges are dismissed.